Hi Moms,
So excited to have found this panel!My family will be going to WDW in April,have res at CP on 26@920.Wondering if they will let us in MK early?I've seen ppl w pics at Cin Castle w no one in park and it looks awesome! MK opens at 9 that day.Thx
K”

Kimberly,

That is exactly right! They should let you in to the Magic Kingdom to get to your dining reservation at the Crystal Palace prior to the standard park opening. It is something we try to do every year, in large part to the fact that we can get a great family photo without all the crowds getting in the picture!

What you want to do is go to the park gates by around 8:45 to 8:50 am. You will see a host to the extreme right or left, typically wearing the garb of the restaurant where they work (usually with an apron) and holding a clipboard or electronic tablet. They will confirm your reservation and then let you in. When you enter the park they will have a pathway for you to walk to your restaurant, so needless to say you can't just go roaming off to any land that you want.

PhotoPass does have photographers on staff, so that is how you can get the great photos!

NOTE: Two quick warnings. The time in advance of your reservations that they let you into the park can vary, so you just want to get there when you can, and know they may make you wait a bit. Also, your time is so close after opening time, there is a chance that they may make you wait until the opening time. Because it is recommended that you be at restaurants at least 10-15 minutes prior to your reservations, I think you will be let in before 9, but it could happen.
Have a magical (and delicious) vacation!

Meet the Panelist: Doug, Indiana

I am one of the Dads on the Moms Panel, and I love to help parents plan their vacation, with a focus on showing them how it can be fun for them too. I am also here to help Dads plan some nice surprises for the Moms in their life (they deserve it!).Learn More About Doug

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